A Life of Devoted Service

September 8, 2022 will no doubt be recorded in history for the death of the longest reigning British monarch , Queen Elizabeth II, but it was also the day on which Sister Marie Craddock was farewelled with a Funeral Mass in the Chapel of St Joseph’s Lochinvar.  Sr Marie had vowed her life to God in that chapel when the Queen was still a Princess.

Then known as Sr Marie Lucille, Marie had been born to Alfred Craddock and Mary Ann Bellotti on the 10th July 1928 and was educated at Merewether and Lochinvar before entering the Congregation of the Sisters of St Joseph in 1945 at the end of World War II.

Like the Princess, Marie dedicated her life in devoted service to those who came under her care for as long as she would live. And indeed it was a long life of ministry that called on her many talents: as Music Teacher, Secondary School Teacher, Novice Director, Curriculum Advisor for the Catholic Education Office, Secretary for the Conference for Leaders of Religious Institutes, Member of Interfaith groups, Volunteer at the Criminal Courts, and Proof Reader for the diocesan monthly magazine, Aurora.

Such a full and varied career brought together  a wide variety of family and friends who gathered to honour her passing at the Funeral Mass celebrated by Father Andrew Doohan. On the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady, the Cathedral musicians lead by Dr Anne Millard, provided a fitting accompaniment of music for one who was such a notable musician herself. Sr Carmel Moore spoke movingly of Sr Marie and her wide interests in life especially her love of poetry which she delighted to share - always ending with her characteristic whisper  “Isn’t that beautiful “.

For a life well-lived Marie will long be remembered by those who shared the journey with her  and who would join in the prayer: The hand of God shall hold you, the peace of God enfold you…

Rest In Peace, Sister Marie.

 

Ellen Royan rsj